Onset of panic disorder and suicide attempts

Abstract

SummaryIn a study of the general population, Weissman et al (1989), found that panic disorder is associated with an increased risk of suicide attempt. We estimated the lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideations or suicide attempts in 100 consecutive referrals for treatment of panic disorder. Sixty per cent of these patients had had suicidal ideation and 42% had attempted suicide during their lifetime. With regard to the season of onset of panic attack, we found a very skewed distribution of first panic in late spring or summer. Furthermore, patients who had their first attack in spring or summer had a higher rate of suicidal ideation and an increased risk of suicide attempt.